Children’s Mental Health Visits Rise as Youth Treatment Programs Face Scrutiny

1-Minute Brief

Growing demand for youth mental health care has led to increased use of residential treatment programs, raising questions about oversight and effec...

Key Facts

• Doctor’s visits for children’s anxiety increased by more than 250 percent over 10 years, according to a study of nearly two million children.
• Some youth residential treatment programs are largely unregulated by the federal government, according to CBS News.
• CBS News reports that some teens left residential treatment centers with more trauma, while others had positive experiences.
• A CBS News investigation found allegations of abuse and a lack of federal oversight in the youth residential treatment industry.
• The New York Times cites research showing a significant rise in children’s mental health visits.

What Happened

Recent research and investigations highlight a sharp increase in children’s mental health visits and examine the practices and oversight of youth residential treatment programs.

Why It Matters

The rise in mental health concerns among children has led families to seek residential treatment, but inconsistent oversight and mixed outcomes have prompted calls for greater accountability and evaluation of these programs.

What's Next

Further scrutiny of residential treatment programs and potential policy discussions on regulation and oversight are expected as mental health needs among youth continue to grow.